Pharmacological Treatments in Schizophrenia

Pharmacological Treatments in Schizophrenia

Description

Published June 2012

ISBN: 978-1-78084-076-5

Several effective antipsychotic agents are currently available, but the overall management of serious psychotic illnesses such as schizophrenia remains unsatisfactory. Psychotic symptoms are only one aspect of the illness, and treatments for negative symptoms and cognitive deficits remain elusive. In future, we need to see an improvement in how the available drugs are used. We also need better conceptualization of the pathophysiological substrate of schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, so that novel treatments can be developed. This book of six chapters from international experts seeks to provide overviews of both these important goals. The first half of the book explores pathophysiology & drug targets, current management and treatments, and unmet medical needs. The book then addresses novel antipsychotics, and novel long-acting and extended-release formulations. The final chapter provides an overview of antipsychotics in early development and future direction for therapy.